Guards at Cumberland County Jail reject contract

PORTLAND, Maine — Corrections officers at the Cumberland County Jail have overwhelmingly rejected the county’s latest contract officer, setting the stage for the two sides to bring in an outside fact-finder.

The union voted 103 to 13 Monday to reject a proposal that included 3 percent cost-of-living raises and some increases to hourly pay based on longevity. Union negotiators presented the offer to members without a recommendation.

Corrections officers have staged informational picking and other job actions. Under Maine law, public employees are not allowed to strike.